For months, members of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) have actively supported candidates endorsed by NJEA and the National Education Association (NEA) in a significant election cycle. Their efforts were reflected on Election Night.
While national results are pending, New Jersey voters showed strong support for the Harris-Walz ticket. With a historic number of voters participating either in person or through mail-in and early voting, New Jersey conveyed a clear message of progress. National voter turnout is anticipated to reach unprecedented levels once all votes are counted.
Andy Kim, who has served as the representative for New Jersey’s Third Congressional District since 2019, was elected as the first Asian-American senator from New Jersey. Kim gained recognition for his involvement in the cleanup following the January 6 Capitol attack.
NJEA officers Sean Spiller, Steve Beatty, and Petal Robertson expressed their pride in a statement: "We are so proud of the work that NJEA members did over the past few months to help ensure victory for pro-public education candidates in New Jersey and beyond. We were out in force across New Jersey and in Pennsylvania to win the future that our students and our families deserve. We made phone calls, knocked on doors and voted for that future."
Beatty and Robertson also commented on the upcoming 2025 election: "We believe our members’ big win in New Jersey in 2024 sets the table for 2025, when we will choose New Jersey’s next governor. And we are confident that the power our members displayed in this election will be shown again next year when our endorsed candidate, Sean Spiller is on the ballot."
The NJEA is monitoring outcomes for 233 NJEA members who campaigned for local office statewide. Many have already been elected, enhancing educators' influence throughout New Jersey with more victories expected as vote counting continues.
The success of numerous educators signals public confidence in having educators hold positions of authority. In 2025, NJEA President Sean Spiller will run for governor to advocate for educators, parents, working families, and retirees across New Jersey.
